BJP rejects Congress’ charge of 'aggressive privatisation' in space sector, says ecosystem is expanding
The BJP has defended the government's space sector policies against Congress allegations of 'aggressive privatisation.' The party cited significant growth in private investment, startup participation, and satellite launches as evidence of a healthy, expanding ecosystem.
Why it matters
This reflects the ongoing political debate regarding the role of private enterprise in India's strategic space and technology sectors.
The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) on Monday (August 24, 2026) rejected the Congress’ assertion that the Narendra Modi government was pursuing an “aggressive privatisation agenda” in the space sector, stating that the space programme had expanded from a predominantly government-led initiative into a broader ecosystem involving the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO), private players, and startups.
In an X post, Congress MP and in-charge of communications Jairam Ramesh said, “...It is abundantly clear that like in nuclear energy, the Modi Govt. has an aggressive privatisation agenda for the space programme as well...”
Responding to the charge, BJP spokesperson Pradeep Bhandari said: “I understand your frustration with India’s remarkable journey in space. But the numbers tell a story that is difficult to ignore. Under PM @narendramodi, India’s space sector has expanded from a predominantly government-led programme into a growing ecosystem of ISRO, Indian industry, and hundreds of space startups.”
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